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These Are the 10 Best Golf Shoes We've Tested (So Far) in 2026

We reviewed kicks from brands like Adidas, NoBull and Under Armour

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VerifiedReviewed by Senior Gear and Reviews Editor
golf shoes on a green background
Ryan Brower

The game of golf starts from the ground up, and that means you’ll want to have the best golf shoes laced up to maximise your performance. Whether you’re seeking comfort for walking a full 18, looking for premium traction and torque, or searching to be the stylish guy on course, the best golf shoes should check off most boxes.

It's true that golf shoes have traditionally been more formal (think metal-spiked brogues made for the links), but the boom of sporty cleat styles that evolved through the 2000s has really opened up the definition of what a golf shoe can look like. And now, in 2026, thanks to forward-thinking footwear designers and PGA TOUR professional golfers who are deeply involved in the design process, we're seeing innovation in golf shoes more than ever before.

Best Golf Shoes

    Like golf shirts and trousers, the best golf shoes are becoming more casual and comfort-driven. Pairs aren't as bulky and heavy as they used to be and certainly don't have scary metal spikes. 'Today's golf shoes are more like sneakers; comfortable, cushioned, breathable, and versatile,' says Paul Sliva, the head golf pro and tournament director at the historic Van Cortlandt Golf Course. 'Technology has gotten better when it comes to traction too, and so you have golf shoes with grippy rubber patterns that a much more gentle on the grass,' says Sliva.

    Though many golf shoes can blend in with regular trainers these days, it's important to wear proper footwear. Why? Well the biggest risk you pose is injury, especially to the knees and ankles. Golf shoes are designed to optimise traction and help keep your feet (and heel) in place when swinging a club. Where regular trainers are designed to be comfortable for movement, golf shoes are made to provide a firm foundation and connection to the ground while still being comfortable enough for long days on your feet. It's a tricky line to balance, but there are plenty of brands making exceptional golf shoes these days. Follow us on our testing as we give you the guide to the best golf shoes.

    What to Consider

    Outsole Design

    Golf shoes are only as good as their outsole. A strong outsole is going to keep you from slipping on your swing, helping to create the conditions for a squared-up ball on every shot you take. Look for durable rubber with some sort of traction pattern on your golf shoes. The traction pattern should be formed well enough to dig into the ground a bit, especially when playing on dewy courses in the morning.

    Weight and Breathability

    Avoid chunky golf shoes that are made with materials that trap heat. You can usually go by the eye test with this step: if it looks hot and heavy, the chances are it is hot and heavy. Instead, keep an eye out for golf shoes made with durable foams and breathable uppers like mesh. Pro tip: a lot of our editors like to bring a second pair of golf socks to change into when making the turn on a round of 18 on hot days.

    Water Resistance

    Owning a pair of golf shoes with at least a minor level of water resistance is smart, because even when you're playing in dry temps you're likely to encounter fresh dew on the course and/or post-watered grounds. Sliva notes that buyers need to remember water resistance is different than waterproof, as water resistant is only going to minimally keep away moisture. 'If you're a more consistent player who will go out when the weather is questionable, then you could probably use a pair of waterproof shoes to have around,' says Sliva.

    How We Selected

    Even though I only get on the links a handful of times a year, the one thing I make sure I do stay consistent with is donning the best golf gear, namely ensuring that I choose picks where style meets performance. As I began my research, I started with this as my baseline criteria before looking at any other considerations. From there, I got some help.

    To make our choices for this guide, I consulted with Senior Gear and Reviews Editor Ryan Brower (a mid-handicapper) to determine which shoes we wanted to consider based on our recent testing experiences and general golf consumer consensus. From there, we put over a dozen of the top golf shoes to the test and evaluated each pair's support, comfort, and performance. We did this in rainy rounds, cold winter rounds, and rounds in the stifling heat. We wore the shoes for full 18 holes of walking, for some chipping and putting work, out on the range, and even just for a quick nine holes. We left no stone unturned in determining the best golf shoes for every type of golfer.

    *Will Porter provided additional reporting for this story.

    Best Overall Golf Shoes

    Adidas S2G 26 Leather Spikeless

    S2G 26 Leather Spikeless

    Pros

    • Good combo of comfort and ground feel
    • Versatile enough for everyday wear
    • Durable upper with added toe cap
    • Deep heel support
    • Balanced, comfortable midsole design

    Cons

    • Traction is decent but could be better
    • Not the most cushioned shoe on our list

    Adidas has some of the best golf shoes around, especially when you consider the value for what you pay. The latest edition of the S2G golf shoes, the 26s, cost just over $100 and you get a versatile pair that can be worn with a number of golf outfits and, if you so choose, casual outfits, thanks to their iconic design that looks like a pair of Adidas Boost running shoes. The shoe's upper is made with a soft waterproof leather (we love how Adidas added a toe cap for better reinforcement and water resistance). Our tester also noticed how the deep, sturdy heel adds solid heel protection and stability for feeling locked in.

    The Adidas Lightstrike cushioning for the midsole is well-made and very comfortable, but it's not the most cushioned golf shoe you can buy. Instead, the SG2 sits somewhere in the middle of supportiveness and cushioning. As for the outsole, it has ample traction with the circular rubber lugs. However, similar to the midsole design, you shouldn't expect the shoe to be the most grippy. The outsole sits somewhere in the middle of grip; just be aware when the tee boxes are slick. Altogether it’s one solid shoe, and takes the crown for best pair overall. And if you want to save even more, the S2G 24s are discounted in lots of places (our previous best overall).

    Features at a Glance

    OutsoleSpikeless Adiwear outsole
    Waterproof?Yes
    Best Weatherproof Golf Shoes

    Nobull Men's Ripstop Golf Shoe

    Men's Ripstop Golf Shoe

    Pros

    • Ripstop is water-resistant yet still flexible
    • Sleek, trainer-inspired style that looks good off the course
    • Breathable and lightweight
    • Secure lacing system

    Cons

    • Traction can be an issue on really soggy conditions

    Nobull has been on a roll with its golf apparel and golf shoe releases lately. One of our personal favourites is the Ripstop Shoe, a sleek, high-comfort golf shoe that manages to repel moisture with ease while still staying breathable.

    The trick to this shoe seems to be how Nobull went with a one-piece ripstop upper that offers one of the highest levels of durability while still remaining breathable enough to not overheat your feet. Unlike older versions that used an extra layer of Gore-Tex, this Ripstop only version remains more flexible yet offers plenty of weather-resistance. Our tester even walked through some puddles intentionally and found no water getting into his socks, and said these shoes still felt light, flexible, and comfortable on the course. And while he did like the upper, he says the real comfort comes from the bouncy Phylon midsole that gave him a pep in his step from hole one to hole 18.

    As far as traction goes, you've got a lug pattern (that's not that deep) for staying locked in, though our tester did have a few moments of slippage on extra-damp tee boxes during a couple rain-filled testing rounds.

    Features at a Glance

    OutsoleRubber lug pattern
    Waterproof?Yes
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    Best Looking Golf Shoes

    Nike Air Max 90 G Golf Shoes

    Air Max 90 G Golf Shoes

    Pros

    • Stylish trainer aesthetic
    • Surprisingly decent traction

    Cons

    • Not fully waterproof
    • A bit heavier than others
    • Longer break-in period

    If you’re looking for a street-cred pick that actually has performance to match, then Nike’s Air Max 90 Gs are the route to go. The latest version of this iconic sneaker ensures that you can even play in wet conditions, thanks to their waterproof design, which also helps you keep them as fresh as can be with an easy cleanup. True to their legendary design, they feature a comfy foam midsole and Air Max unit for premium cushioning, so even if you decide to walk a full round, you can do so in style and comfort.

    While they may look like you're typical Air Max 90 sneakers, underneath is where the real magic happens. Nike took the classic waffle soles and redesigned its traction with a slight twist, ensuring optimal grip on any course or playing conditions. While they may not be fully water-resistant, they will allow you to play in crummy weather while looking good doing so.

    Features at a Glance

    OutsoleHybrid waffle pattern
    Waterproof?Yes
    Best Golf Shoe for Gym Lovers

    Reebok Nano Golf Shoes

    Nano Golf Shoes

    Pros

    • Comfortable for walking a full round (or more)
    • Great traction even on damp days
    • Fully waterproof

    Cons

    • Not the most stylish golf shoe

    Like the Nobull shoes, the Reebok Nano Golf uses an existing workout shoe silhouette as its foundation. The Nano is one of Reebok's most popular gym shoes, loved by Cross-Fit hardos and HIIT enthusiasts, so it's not surprising that Reebok tried to recreate that success on the golf course.

    After testing, we think the shoe is a big win for Reebok, who rolled out the Nano Golf with U.S. Open champ and YouTube star Bryson DeChambeau — a guy who looks like he'd be just as comfortable on the weight room floor as he is on the golf course — so the partnership makes sense.

    Wearing the shoe on a suitably soggy spring day, our tester's feet stayed completely dry for the whole round, so we're happy to report that the waterproofing works wonders.

    He also lauded the traction, which uses raised undulated lugs and a TPU Torsion Shank to provide support and stability across all surfaces, from tee boxes to the rough and sand traps to the green.

    Features at a Glance

    OutsoleLugged rubber with TPU Torsion underfoot shank
    Waterproof?Yes
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    Best Golf Shoes for Maximum Traction

    Under Armour UA Drive Pro Clone Golf Shoes

    UA Drive Pro Clone Golf Shoes

    Pros

    • Phenomenal 360-degree traction
    • Very comfortable for walking all day
    • Waterproof

    Cons

    • Priced higher than most
    • Need to change shoes walking around the parking lot and clubhouse

    Spiked golf shoes are the best option when it comes to providing ultimate traction, and UA’s Drive Pros give you a shoe that is literally engineered and lab tested to, as the brand says, 'unlock the power of your natural swing'. Flipping the shoes over, you’ll see how that’s achieved, thanks to its hybrid soft spike system (S3) which utilises two different spike designs: a hurricane design to improve rotational grip, while the other multi-directional spike enhances stability. This perfect combo of nine cross-diagonally placed spikes help to maximixe power transfer while preventing slippage in any direction.

    To take it up another notch, these golf cleats are also super comfortable thanks to the conforming uppers that feel like they mould onto your feet, while the brand’s Hovr cushioning not only fully locks in your feet, but also makes walking any course an absolute pleasure. While they’re not the most expensive pick in our guide, they will still run close to that £200 threshold, but most will justify the cost with their excellent performance. Plus, they’re also waterproof.

    Features at a Glance

    OutsoleUA Swing Support System (S3) with soft spikes
    Waterproof?Yes
    Most Comfortable Golf Shoes

    ECCO Biom Hybrid 5 Textile Golf Shoe

    Biom Hybrid 5 Textile Golf Shoe

    Pros

    • Mesh offers great breathability during hot summer days
    • Great energy return from the midsole
    • Exceptional traction for a spikeless shoe

    Cons

    • Heavier than most shoes we've tested
    • On the expensive end of the spectrum
    • A bit narrow

    Ecco golf shoes are some of the most comfortable performance kicks you can buy, and the greater golf community loves them. The brand isn't as widely known and played-in on this side of the Atlantic, but the Biom H5 stands out among every shoe we tested.

    While they're a little heavier than our tester was used to (though lighter than the leather version), he found that the weight made for a shoe that offered up a ton of stability and support across the entire golf course. "I see why lots of European and UK golfers love them—I don’t think I’ve ever felt as locked-in with a golf shoe before," he said, after wearing the Eccos for a few rounds.

    Along with the exceptional stability, the mesh upper offers excellent breathability, and the midsole provides ample comfort for long rounds on your feet, whether walking or riding. Our tester was surprised to find that the midsole was not only comfortable for a whole round but also provided some energy return, akin to that you'd get from a running shoe. Walking 36 holes? No problem.

    Features at a Glance

    OutsoleRubber spikeless
    Waterproof?No
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    Best Soft Spike Golf Shoes

    Footjoy Hyperflex Waterproof Spiked Golf Shoes

    Hyperflex Waterproof Spiked Golf Shoes
    Credit: Will Porter

    Pros

    • Secure lacing
    • Comfortable StratoFoam midsole
    • Waterproof with 2-year waterproof warranty
    • Removable soft spikes

    Cons

    • Waterproof design makes them less breathable than other golf shoes with a knit upper
    • Take a full round or two to fully break in

    FootJoy makes the best traditional leather golf shoes, but it also makes some pretty awesome modern golf shoes, too. The revamped Hyperflex is a star-studded performer, featuring materials like a breathable knit upper, a supportive foam midsole, and a hidden soft spikes outsole. PGA star Justin Thomas even ditched his traditional FootJoys for a pair of Hyperflexes last season.

    Though they're a favorite of the pros, few Average Joe golfers utilize spikes these days, but if you want to play like JT or the rest of the PGA Tour field, shoes with soft spikes are worth a look. Soft spikes mimic metal spikes, but are more forgiving to course terrain while still providing incredible traction. I found that with this pair specifically, the chances of slipping and sliding in these bad boys was seriously limited, even when the course was glazed in morning dew.

    FootJoy also backs this pair with a two-year waterproof warranty, which adds to our claim that these are some of the best golf shoes for serious players in 2026. You get sneaker-like comfort with premium features, making the shoes great for even subpar weather conditions that you decide to play in anyway.

    Features at a Glance

    OutsoleInfinity outsole with soft spikes
    Waterproof?Yes
    Best Traditional Golf Shoe

    Sun Day Red Pioneer Cypress

    Pioneer Cypress
    Credit: Will Porter

    Pros

    • Goldilocks blend of style and performance
    • Great traction from 9-spike design
    • Comfortable enough for walking multiple rounds

    Cons

    • Premium price point is tough to stomach

    We still can't get over seeing Tiger Woods wearing anything other than Nike, but starting his own brand makes the most sense if he had to move on from The Swoosh. Sun Day Red is the quintessential Tiger brand, full of classic-looking golf gear that puts a premium on performance. The Pioneer Cypress shoes are the perfect representation of that. They're stylish, are a subtle twist on a classic silhouette, and are chock-full of performance features.

    I could see and feel the quality from the moment I opened the box (which was very well-made in its own right). The attention to detail is striking. Each shoe comes in its own dust bag, and the pair comes with an extra massaging insole for those looking for something more plush. The materials are stellar, and subtle Tiger-esque touches like tiger stripes on the heel give these a feel that justifies the price without even wearing them on the course.

    On the course, though, the function matches the form. The soft spikes are durable and provide exceptional traction across the course, the waterproof leather is supple and actually keeps the wearer dry (even on rainy days). And, where most traditional-style golf shoes aren't comfortable until you've worn them for a few rounds, the Pioneer Cypress were perfect right out of the box.

    OutsoleHigh-density TPU full ground contact plate with a 9-cleat configuration
    WeightNot listed
    Waterproof?Yes
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    Best Slip-In Golf Shoes

    Men's Skechers Slip-ins Waterproof: GO GOLF Prestige

    Skechers Slip-ins Waterproof: GO GOLF Prestige

    Pros

    • Supportive heel cushion
    • Podiatrist-designed shape
    • Uses Skechers' hands-free slip-in technology
    • Durable waterproof upper
    • Removable insole for custom comfort

    Cons

    • Traditional golf shoe silhouette isn't for everyone
    • You still have to tie the laces

    Don’t sleep on Skechers golf shoes (and running shoes for that matter). The GO GOLF Prestige SL Slip-Ins features a classic design akin to more traditional styles, as well as waterproof construction and a spikeless outsole. The shoe also boasts another one of Skechers' patented features: Arch Fit technology. This includes podiatrist-certified arch support, as well as a removable, supportive cushioning insole system for a customisable and comfortable walking experience.

    Our tester was able to slip into them easily on the pavement, totally hands-free. The insole is springy and moulds to your feet, which helps reduce shock and distribute your weight evenly. The comfort was apparent during the first round, and they didn't really require a discernible break-in period. The embedded Heel Pillow helped keep his feet in place and added a layer of much-appreciated comfort. The Arch Fit technology made for a balanced, grounded feel that can go head-to-head with any other shoe in this guide.

    Features at a Glance

    OutsoleSpikeless
    Waterproof?Yes
    Best Hybrid Golf Shoes

    Travis Mathew The Daily Pro Plus Golf Shoe

    The Daily Pro Plus Golf Shoe

    Pros

    • Can wear as much off the course as on it
    • Secure grip and lacing
    • Equal level of support and cushioning

    Cons

    • Players who want a golf-specific shoe should look elsewhere
    • Some players might want deeper outsole grooves for better traction

    The golf/everyday sneaker crossover doesn't get much stronger than this. TravisMathew's Daily Pro Hybrid is designed specifically for the guys who have plans after their morning tee time.

    The Daily Pro comes in two versions: hybrid and golf. The hybrid version is virtually the same as the golf version, but made with less traction and a more breathable upper. The golf version utilizes a spikeless golf sole and synthetic waterproof upper to help it stand out from the hybrid.

    The Daily Pro, as its name suggests, is a great daily workhorse for the golfer who is constantly on the move from the office to the bar to the range to the first tee—no matter what you're up to on any given day, the Daily Pro has you covered.

    A shoe not tailor-made for golf will always leave us a bit suspicious of its ability to perform on the course, but the Daily Pro assuaged those fears with its all-day comfort and solid traction.

    Features at a Glance

    OutsoleReverse rubber hybrid lugs
    Waterproof?Yes
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    Best Bold Statement Golf Shoes

    G/FORE MG4+ 02 Perforated Golf Shoe

    MG4+ 02 Perforated Golf Shoe

    Pros

    • Bold aesthetic choice
    • Super comfortable
    • Waterproof uppers are quite breathable

    Cons

    • On the heavier side
    • Requires a longer break-in period
    • Slightly snug

    If you’re not familiar with G/Fore, the brand practically made its name featuring bold prints and loud aesthetics, particularly its solid coloured golf gloves. While the its golf shoes are a bit more reserved and not too over-the-top, its signature camo printed soles do plenty of talking. With a solid array of options, its waterproof MG4+ O2 golf shoes are the perfect fusion of comfort, athletic design, and genuine performance.

    The spikeless option is a bestseller and offers pretty decent traction, even on wet playing conditions, thanks to its unique sawtooth traction pattern. To enhance its locked-in feel even further, its external heel counter provides an even more stable base, which is perfect for even the most aggressive swingers. Though these shoes are waterproof, they feature a perforated and breathable upper which makes them great for hotter days, too. Plus, bonus points for the removable massaging insoles which are also machine washable.

    Features at a Glance

    OutsoleTPU sawtooth pattern
    Waterproof?Yes
    Headshot of Jeff Turbett

    Jeff Turbett is a fitness and wellness writer who's based in Miami, FL. His work has been featured in The Manual and FightCamp. 

    Headshot of Ryan  Brower
    Reviewed byRyan Brower
    Senior Gear and Reviews Editor

    Ryan Brower is the Senior Gear and Reviews Editor at Men’s Health, where he tests the best products in outdoor gear and tech. Baseball, surfing, and camping occupied most of his time growing up. He also trained in martial arts for 12 years and holds a third degree black belt. He has written about the outdoors for nearly two decades and was previously the Managing Editor, Content Performance at Gear Patrol. He is also a Certified Beer Server and previously covered the craft beer industry. Ryan currently lives on the water in New Jersey with his wife and their dog.

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